Engine Failure During Approach Due to Carburetor Icing

Casualties unknown • Salem, OR, US

A pilot experienced an engine failure during a straight-in approach after descending through icing conditions without applying carburetor heat.

What happened

The pilot was cleared for a straight-in approach and began a descent from approximately 2,000 feet above ground level (AGL) while roughly five miles from the runway. During the descent, about halfway through the maneuver, the pilot retarded the throttle to idle. However, the pilot did not apply carburetor heat during this phase of flight.

As the aircraft reached 400 feet AGL, the pilot recognized that the aircraft was too low on the approach and attempted to arrest the descent by pushing the throttle forward. Upon advancing the throttle, the engine failed to respond. The pilot then applied full carburetor heat in an attempt to restart the engine, but the engine would not restart.

Probable cause

The engine failure was caused by severe carburetor icing that occurred because the pilot did not apply carburetor heat while operating at glide power in icing conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-05-09 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Salem, OR?

A pilot experienced an engine failure during a straight-in approach after descending through icing conditions without applying carburetor heat.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-05-09 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N7483L, at Salem, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failure was caused by severe carburetor icing that occurred because the pilot did not apply carburetor heat while operating at glide power in icing conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18885. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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